With the holidays upon us you’ll have more people to your home and that could mean trouble for your dog. Especially if these guests like to give their own dogs table scraps. Make your guest aware that you don’t like to give your dog table scraps no matter if they beg. Your guests should understand. We came across this infographic that you might want to print and tape to your fridge.
There are just some things dogs should never eat and of course, can eat.
What Table Scraps Dogs Should Not Eat
- Chocolate (any form): contains theorbromine and caffeine and may cause dehydration, abdominal pain, muscle tremors, vomiting, seizures and in most extreme cases, death.
- Dairy Products (Milk, Cheese, Butter etc.): Dogs don’t have the necessary enzymes to break down the fat and sugar contained in milk and may cause diarrhea, gas and/or vomiting. Dogs may be susceptible to bacterial disease.
- Onions: The sulfur and other compounds within onions may damage red blood cells making your dog appear lethargic and weak.
- Grapes|Raisins: may cause vomiting, diarrhea and worse, death from kidney failure
- Avocado contains a toxin called Persin which may cause breathing difficulties, upset stomach, and if the pit is swallowed may lead to an obstruction in their intestines costing you major vet bills.
- Bacon: believe it or not, this uber-tasty treat is seriously loaded with fat which could lead to pancreatitis in some dogs. Consider this when giving your dog any animal fats like gristle.
- Caffeine (Coffee, Teas): contain a stimulant called Methylated Xanithina and can cause vomiting, heart palpitation and even death in some dogs.
- Bread Dough may cause extreme gas within a dogs stomach and intestines. The yeast is still fermenting and may cause vomiting and potentially a ruptured stomach or intestines.
- Fruit Cores (Apples, Plums, Peaches, Pears, Apricots, etc): these fruit cores contains seeds that have a Cyanide compound to them. May cause seizures, struggle to breathe, shock and even coma in some dogs.
- Garlic: is more dangerous than onions as it’s more concentrated and have the same effect of onions. Worst case a blood transfusion may be necessary to save your dog’s life.
What Human Foods Dogs Can Eat
We first advise you talk with your dog’s veterinarian to assure that the list below is allowable for your dog. These are typical foods that most dogs can handle. Keep in mind, all things in moderation.
- Eggs: as long as they are fully cooked, and be sure they are not hot
- Peanut Butter: As long as it does not contain “Xylitol” which is harmful to dogs. Make sure you only give them Raw unsalted peanut butter which can be found in natural food stores.
- Fish: Yep. Just as long as the fish is fully cooked and de-boned.
- Coconut: This tasty treat contains Lauric which helps the immune system and also helps with bad breath. Coconut milk and oil are also safe for dogs.
- Watermelon: Yes, but not the rind! Be sure that you remove white or black seeds before giving your dog any watermelon.
- Green Pepper: Yes. Green pepper makes for a tasty treat and is chock full of vitamins. You can add Green beans, Broccoli, carrots, cucumbers, sweet potatoes and even zucchini!
- Apples, bananas, Strawberries, Pears (as long as the core and seeds are removed: see above)
Here is a longer list of foods dangerous to dogs: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dog_health#Dangerous_foods
The worlds most Dangerous Foods for Dogs Infographic by Lili Chin (http://doggiedrawings.net) & The Labs Co.
